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University of Utah

Gus Paulos Obituary

Gus Paulos 1941 ~ 2006 Utah businessman and philanthropist Gus Ernest Paulos passed away Sunday January 1, 2006 at LDS Hospital at age 64 following a two-year battle with lung cancer. Gus was born Sept. 23, 1941 in Magna, Utah to Ernest Gus Paulos and Katherine Joan Paulos. He grew up and was educated in Magna graduating from Cypress High School and then went on to the University of Utah. After serving in the United States Marine Corps he returned to Utah and married Lanna Jo Franks. They were later divorced. In 1979 Gus married Barbara Ann Rydalch. Gus and Barbara were a perfect match and enjoyed wonderful years filled with success, good humor, family and friends. In 1980 Gus took over an automobile franchise that had been in the family since 1921 and went on to create one of the top dealerships in the country. For many years he was the number one dealer of any make in Utah. Gus was known for his humorous, self-deprecating advertising where he often made fun of his short stature. He also was known for his extreme generosity and kindness, especially toward those who had encountered any kind of misfortune. Over the last 25 years Gus spent literally millions of dollars battling drunk driving. He felt strongly that the products he so proudly sold should never be misused in that manner and was very aware of the pain and devastation caused by those who operated vehicles under the influence. He made significant contributions to numerous other charitable causes in Utah, including the Make a Wish Foundation and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and many other organizations and individuals, whenever they were in need. Gus received numerous honors during his life, including recognition by the Utah State Legislature and the Governor of Utah. Last year he was honored by Time Magazine as the number one car dealer in the United States for humanitarian and community service. Gus had great love for his family. They were the joy of his life. He also considered those who worked with him and his many associates as part of his family. He had the ability to make everyone feel that they were the most important in the room. Despite his short stature, Gus cast a long shadow for good wherever he went. Gus is survived by his wife Barbara; his mother, Katherine Joan Paulos; children, Greg (Debbie) Paulos; Tim (Candey) Paulos; Troy (Kelli) Rydalch; Bart (Candice) Rydalch; brothers Peter E. Paulos and Leon E. (Shannon) Paulos; sister Patty P. (Howard) Miller; eight grandchildren and one great-grandson. A viewing will be held at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple in Salt Lake City Friday, Jan. 6, 2006 from 5 to 9pm. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 7 at 12pm at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church 279 South 300 West, Salt Lake City. The family would like to especially thank LDS Hospital, Dr. Pearl, Salt Lake Cancer Specialists and all others that have been there for Gus during the last several months. In lieu of flowers, Gus requested that those who wish donate to the Gus Paulos Charitable Foundation at any Wells Fargo Bank, to the cancer treatment charity of their choice, or to simply do an act of kindness for someone else.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Jan. 5 to Jan. 6, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Gus Paulos

67 Entries

Marty Pratt

January 21, 2006

Dear Paulos Family im so sorry for your loss of a great man i meet gus back about 30 years ago and my dad knew him before that i meet gas while my mom would take her truck in to the dealership to be worked on and being like any little boy i went to see what i could find i found a man who would let me in his offfice to look at all the stuff he had displayed as i got older and worked in clubs in high school and we needed a donation i could alway depend on gus to help he was a very special man who will be missed by all who know him my father grew up with the family and pastaway in 1977 we bought out other car earlyer from your family

thank you

marty pratt

bountiful UTah formly of Kearns

Rod Nelson

January 18, 2006

I purchase my Corvette for Gus back in 1981,upon finalizing the transaction with Bill Thiese he said Mr.Paulos would like to meet you.Gus welcomed my Dad & I into his office,congradulated me on my Vette and offered his assistance and his business card with the name of a collector in Denver should I ever decide to sell it.To this day I still have my '78 Corvette,although my Dad passed away last year.I will always remember Gus' kindiness to us and how he made me feel that day.It was more than just a car to me and Gus knew it.I sincerely appreciate and remember him all these years later.He was a fine man,and I wish him peace alway.

McKay LeFevre

January 17, 2006

Barbara, Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We hope that you got the picture of you and Gus that was taken at our class reunion. His warm smile and spirit still goes on. He was quite a guy.

Dixie Penrod (Davis)

January 15, 2006

To the family of Gus my sincere sympathy. About a year and a half ago, Gus called me after finding out my husband had lung cancer to give me support and offered any help I might need. My husband lost the battle but I continue to remember his call and all he said. I went to Cyprus with Gus and he truly was memorable person with a heart as large as all out doors. He will truly be missed along with his humor.

Kathy Mallek

January 13, 2006

I remember seeing Gus at Jim's Restaurant always with someone different and always talking to people passing by and showing kindness to everyone.

Mary Nickles

January 13, 2006

Barbara and family,

We hope you are still celebrating Gus' wonderful life, and realize that anyone who came in contact with Gus not only met a fantastic person, but takes a part of him with them for the rest of their lives. So know that Gus lives on in all of us who were blessed to share his fun and brilliant spirit. Our prayers are with you in this tough time.

Love,

Kent and Mary Nickles and family

Don and Denise Morris

January 11, 2006

Greg and Debbie,

It is with great sorry that I send wishes to you and your family with the loss of your Dad. I know what he had done for me in my life and how he made me one of his family when I needed it very badly. I know that losing loved ones is very difficult, and very difficult to watch them go through a terrible episode in their life. I know he had many friends and made many throughout the years through his and your Grandfathers dealerships, but when you worked for your Dad you felt from him something that most places a person works never gets to experience. Love from both Denise and myself, and you know my loality will continue with you in the future. Thanks for all you have done for my family, and my God's blessings be with your family.

Don and Denise

Kelley

January 10, 2006

To the Paulos family,

I am so sorry for your loss of Gus. He was such an awesome man. He cared about his business and always made sure that we were being taking care of. I remember when we would run into him at Jim's while eating breakfast on a Saturday morning. He was just an awesome guy and will be deeply missed.

De Ann Oslowski

January 10, 2006

Dear Barbara,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Gus. We were in Mesquite during the funeral. I will always remember Gus and his contributions to my life while I was a teacher at Cypress High. I taught Greg as well as Patti, and as you know, I have known you through Shelly for many years. I have such fond and precious memories of my years at Cypress. Magna people are truly family. We did keep in touch with Gus somewhat through Bruce Jensen, but he also tragically left us just before Christmas. May you find comfort and Peace at this time, knowing how many people loved and appreciated Gus.

Debby McMillin

January 10, 2006

Dear Paulos Family,

We were taken back by the passing of Gus. I knew Gus through my Dad (R.E.(Pete)Heuser)who worked for the Zone Office in SLC. My husband Bruce McMillin grew up with Gus's sister in Magna. We both have fond merories of days gone by & hope your fond memories help in this sad time.

Bruce & Debby McMillin

Craig Fossati

January 10, 2006

What a fabulous person to work with. From the first day I arrived in Salt Lake City with GMAC,Gus made me feel like a part of the Gus Paulos operation as a partner in the business, not just a vendor. Gus was far more than a GM dealer, he was a close personal friend and confidant to all of us. He will be missed and never forgotten.

January 9, 2006

Gus was a very kind, caring, and genuine man. While Gus was in our facility laughter could be heard through out the entire office. He was always cracking jokes and making everyone laugh even on days when he felt the worst. He will be greatly missed by all of us. On behalf of Utah Cancer Specialists we wish his family all the best during this time. We will never forget Gus.

Utah Cancer Specialists

Salt Lake City, Utah

BRUCE HATFIELD

January 9, 2006

GUS WAS A GREAT MAN AND THE BEST TO WORK FOR. WHEN I START FEELING SAD ABOUT HIS PASSING ALL I CAN DO IS THINK ABOUT ALL THE FUN THINGS HE USED TO DO. HE HELPED MY FAMILY LIKE HE DID MANY OTHERS AND I WILL BE REMEMBER THAT FOREVER. THANKS GUS FOR ALL THE FUN TIMES.

BRUCE AND SANDY HATFIELD

Sherry Hanks Hunter

January 8, 2006

Greg I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Mick Sudbury

January 8, 2006

Greg, Barbara, & Troy,

I was in the hospital when I heard the news about Gus. I just want you all to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this dificult time. Gus was a great man and will be missed by the Sudbury Family.

Mike and Cherie Leyba

January 8, 2006

My husband and I are members of the Corvette Club of Utah and are deeply grateful to Gus for his kindness and generosity in sponsoring our club. It was a real treat the day we took our Corvette to the dealership be serviced and Gus personally invited us into his private office and talked our ear off for twenty minutes while we sat grinning from ear to ear listening his car and travel stories and looking at all his memorbelia and pictures on the wall. We were honored and humbled to attend his funeral yesterday. We treasure our club shirts that he donated to us. They proudly bear the logo "Gus Paulos, sponsor" and now that he is gone they will be forever priceless. Last year, we as a club gathered together to hold a prayer for Gus. As we bowed our heads in a tearful and sincere prayer, we prayed that Gus would beat the cancer that was making him so ill. We are deeply saddened at his passing and grateful for the privilege to have known and admired such a magnificent man, a giant among us all.

Madelyn Martinez-Ibarra

January 7, 2006

Greg, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.

Sincerely,

Madelyn Martinez Ibarra

Muggs and Val Petersen

January 7, 2006

Dear Barbara and Family.........

Dear Pete, Lonnie, Kate and Patti,

We're sorry you have lost someone so special to you. Gus was a fun

classmate and friend. He lived live to the fullest, first class.

There will be a big hole there for a long time. Love to all: Muggs and Val Petersen, Bullhead.City,AZ

Susie Buecher

January 7, 2006

Barbara and Family,

I am saddened by the passing of such a wonderful man. I had the great pleasure of working for Gus at the dealership. I will greatly miss his humor, his laugh and his kindness. Know that my prayers are with you at this time.

Susie (Woo) Buecher

Dick Weaver

January 7, 2006

God Bless You All through such a hard time, you've lost a great soul in body but in spirit he will always be with you! Gus was such a wonderful man and meant so much to our family. He changed our family in so many great ways! Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with you all. Dick & DeAnn Weaver & Family

Terry Suchala

January 7, 2006

I wiil always remember the fond memories I have for the time that I had the privilege and honor to be associated with Gus. It was truly a sad day when he left us.

JOE @ DIAMOND GLASS WINDOW WAREHOUSE WINNETT

January 6, 2006

GOD BLESS ALL THE FAMILY, FOR YOU HAVE LOST A GREAT MAN...BUT HAVE GAINED A GUARDIAN ANGEL. OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. LET US NOT MOURNE OUR LOSS BUT CHARISH OUR MEMORIES.

Jim Roberto

January 6, 2006

I had the pleasure of meeting Gus only on one occasion several years ago. It was very easy to see what a genuine and kind person he was. The world will not be the same without him. My thoughts and prayers to all his family. God Bless.

Lanny Crivelli

January 6, 2006

Troy, I know you had all the respect in the world for Gus and will miss his guidence. Hang in there and think and do as he would. He will always be with you.

Georgia Vallejos

January 6, 2006

My late husband, Rickie Vallejos, had a special place in his heart for Gus. His first job as a teenager was working for Gus, washing cars. That would have been in the late sixties, early seventies. In 1995, we purchased a vehicle from Gus, and to show his appreciation for that first job, Rickie gave Gus a Mickey Mouse pocket watch that I bought for him in Disneyland. I know that sounds like a dumb present, but it was the nicest thing Rickie had. My condolences to you, Barbara. I lost my Rickie suddenly in August of 2004, and I know what you are going through. I wish I could be more comfort to you, but I know it helps to remember the good things he did.

Mac Connole

January 6, 2006

There is little one can say at a time like this. But I'd like you to know that I'm thinking of you and that you have my heartfelt sympathy. Your sorrow is shared by everyone who knew and loved him.

Donna Erickson

January 6, 2006

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

vickie streeter/bennett

January 6, 2006

God bless all the family in this time of need.

Gussy will be missed by all who knew him.

Susan Smithson

January 6, 2006

I did not meet Gus until the last year of his life, but I believe that I have been cheated from knowing a man who had a quiet courage and great humor.

Maddy Collings

January 6, 2006

DEAR Barb Gregg Tim Troy and Bart

Gary and I extrnd our deepest sympathy to you at this time.We have alot of good memories of Gussy.He was a good friend and a fun neighbor. God Bless and keep you my friends Gary and Maddy

Irene & Bruce Teran

January 5, 2006

Dearest Barbara and Family,

The passing of Gus has left a very deep hole in our hearts. Being able to call him our friend and sharing experiences and witnessing his generosity, kindness and passion for life and what he believed in will always affect us and those he helped. When your days are not going well and there will be days like that we pray that you will always find comfort knowing that he's not far away.

Richard McAffee

January 5, 2006

May God bless all those whom knew Gus. He was kind and generous to everyone. A great person to be around. Wonderful since of humor. Gus will be missed but never forgotton.

ELVA GRAHAM

January 5, 2006

BARBARA,HERE'S HOPING YOU ARE STRONG AS EVER!,WE @ GAINEY TRULY LOVED THE BOTH OF YOU& ALWAYS WILL!WHAT GREAT MEMORIES OF GUS& HIS GENEROSITY TO ALL HE MET,HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED!,LOVE PHIL&ELVA GRAHAM

Gilbert Romero

January 5, 2006

To the Paulos Family,

Our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to you all in your time of sorrow. May God bless you!

Lots of love,

Gilbert Romero Jr. and Family

Becky Young

January 5, 2006

I will always feel grateful to Gus Paulos. He gave me the opportunity to sell cars and then spent years teaching me. He belived in me and said, "I am going to make you the best". I can still hear Gus walking through the door after being gone and yelling across the showroom floor "I'm Home"! I watched him give to so many. He gave of his time, money, love, kindness and laughter. Gus lived life to the fullest. What an honor to have worked for him and to know him. I owe you Gus!

Marla Keith

January 5, 2006

To Barbara, and the family, I would like to express my sympathy on the loss of Gus. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time.

Liz Card

January 5, 2006

To Barbara and family,

I truly loved the time I spent at Gus Paulos Chevrolet. I feel honored to have known Gus and I feel such a great loss in his passing. I will never forget our time spent together planning the company Christmas party and all of the great gifts that he was sending out. Gus was the most generous man I ever knew and I will never forget him. You are all in my heart and prayers.

Love always,

Mike Christenson

January 5, 2006

On behalf of the West Valley Fraternal Order of Police, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Paulos Family. Gus' support of the West Valley City Police Department and K-9 Unit has been greatly appreciated. Gus donated money for the purchase of a Police K-9 in 2002 and K-9 Gus is working today because of the generosity of such a great man. Gus, you will be greatly missed.

Byron Lund

January 5, 2006

Dear Barbara and Family, In seeing Gus in many situations throughout his early life, he always met every situation with a great deal of energy and one of the most remarkable senses of humor I have ever witnessed. He made every task fun and endurable. He had the gift of being a leader and a team player at the same time. All of our lives will be affected by the loss of such a unique individual that was so accomplished in so many ways.

Pam Paulos-Strike

January 5, 2006

Dear Barbara and Family,

My heart was saddened with the final news of Gussie's passing. Mom, Dad and all of us send our sincerest wishes for a peaceful memory of a person who filled our lives from childhood with love and laughter. May God give you the belief and knowledge that he will never be forgotten...and the strength to smile through these difficult days. My love and sympathy to all, Pam-mie

Will and Linda Petty

January 5, 2006

Gus was not only a wonderful neighbor, but a good friend as well. He will be missed.

Mary Marquez

January 5, 2006

To the Paulos Family: I was very sorry to hear about Gus. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Memories are eternal. God Bless you all. Love, Mary Marquez

TONY AND SHARI CHRISTENSEN

January 5, 2006

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO ALL OF THE PAULOS FAMILY. IT WAS A PLEASURE WORKING FOR SUCH A LOVING AND GIVING PERSON. GUS TOUCHED MANY OF LIVES NOT ONLY IN HIS DEALERSHIP BUT OTHERS THAT HE DIDN'T KNOW. HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY PEOPLE. IT WAS A HONOR TO HAVE KNOWN AND WORKED WITH HIM.

Cindie Ault

January 5, 2006

I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Gus, my ex-husband Craig Reed works for Gus Paulos in West Valley and has for years, he really enjoyed the times that Gus would walk around talking to the workers. I hope his family will stick together and be strong for one another I know that is what Gus would have wanted.

Cindie Reed/Ault

Tyler Walker

January 5, 2006

Thank You Mr. Paulos for always talking to me when I come into your Dealership. I thank you again for the TWO MODEL cars you gave me and for signing them both for me. I'm glad my Grandmother gave you the letter I wrote you and that you read it in front of her. I hope some day I can work at your dealership when I'm older. You are the BEST. I will miss you.

Your Friend Alway

Tyler Walker

(age 13)

Bill & Brenda Allen

January 5, 2006

Our deepest sympathies to Barbara and family for the loss of their loved one. Gus was a most friendly and generous person and will be missed by all who knew him.

Randy Jacobs

January 5, 2006

Gus is one of the most generous, genuine men I have known. His integrity and commitment to his values offer an example worthy of emulation. Working with Gus was a true blessing. My prayers are with the family.

Vern Dymock

January 5, 2006

I would like to express my deep sorrow and sympathy to Barb and the kids for the passing of our friend Gussy. He was a very good friend, not only to me, but a multitude of others and I am going to miss him very much.

A friend always,

Vern

GLEN NYGREN

January 5, 2006

Dear Paulos Family

I am very sorry for Gus's passing.He is a wonderful man, and I am honored to have known and worked for him for many years.Mine and my famlies prayers go out to you all.

My Best Regards

Glen Nygren and Family

Brent Wankier

January 5, 2006

It was truely a privilage to know and call Gus my friend. He will be greatly missed by by me and his many, many friends and family.

Jordan Landing Shopping Center

January 5, 2006

Our sympathies go out to the Paulos Family.

Shelly Cordova

January 5, 2006

Gus was the most generous man I ever knew. He will be missed as much as he is loved.

Gina Mageras

January 5, 2006

Although I have talked with Gus briefly and infrequently as his Niece-in-Law, I feel as though a bright light has been dimmed from this world. He is an individual truly remarkable and unforgettable.

Sherry Lobato

January 5, 2006

To the family and friends of Gus,

Gus was truly a unique individual. He touched the life of my family with his kindness & generosity. He will live on in the loving memories of those who knew him and or worked with or for him.

Although our sorrow can not be as deep as those of his wife and children we have felt the loss and our condolenses go out to you and yours.

Mitzi Roderick

January 5, 2006

I will always have many wonderful memories of good times with Gus and Barbara. He will be sorely missed by so many of us. Thanks for the memories.

Jan Zumwalt

January 5, 2006

Gus Not only was he a great man to do business with, he was also a kind and caring person. He was an inspiration to me though my two battles of cancer.

Teri Thomas

January 5, 2006

Dear Barbara,I am so sorry to hear about Gus. My thoughts are with you and hope to see you soon-Teri (The Store)

Sue (mcdonald) Edick

January 5, 2006

Gus was my mentor and my friend. I grew up in the business with him and for that I will always be grateful. My heart goes out to Kaye, Barbara and the family. He was truly a great man.

Debbie Evans

January 5, 2006

Barbara,

My relationship with you and Gus was short, but very sweet. The moment I met Gus, I realized he was special. I never in my life, felt so much kindness come from a man. I felt very warmed in his presence. I truly believe that there are angels among us and Gus was definitely one of them. Thank you for the opportunity to know you and Gus. My life has been greatly enriched. My prayers will be with you and your family.

Barbara Christensen-Boner

January 5, 2006

Gus was one of the finest people I have ever known. His friendship and generosity will be missed.

Our prayers are with his family.

Steve Archuletta

January 5, 2006

The footsteps that we take through life,

leave a small impression

On the paths that we have walked

We live and learn Gods lesson

The choices that we make are such,

that when we leave they stay,

The memories of the life we lived,

are carried day to day

The footprints that we make are such,

we feel them on our heart,

It makes the day harder still,

when it's time to part

We know that as the sun will rise,

that we will meet again

and when we are together then,

your riches are your friends

As the path that you have walked,

you touched the life of many,

the friends and family that you have,

your wealth not matched by any

You took the time to give a hand,

to those that were in need,

You cared about your fellow man,

you never followed, you'd lead

You lived your life as an example,

and many looked up to you,

it's funny that you joked about,

the height that God gave to you

Today we pray that as we live,

and as our lives go on,

Your caring loving giving ways,

In us they will live on

You've passed the portal that we seek,

and now you have crossed over,

we hope that as the days go by,

the you we will discover

As you look upon us now,

a smile you hope we'll find,

for when we see a friend in need,

we hope you will remind

Mr. Gus Paulos, I tip my hat,

and give a nod to you,

I smile as I say so long,

till next we meet, adieu.

Madeline Pappas

January 5, 2006

Dear Family,

What a great loss to all family, and friends of this so kind person. Gus really kept the TV viewers laughing, and with the laughter, he endured such pain

himself.

May God Bless all of you in

your loss and healing process of the LOSS OF YOUR DEAR GUS PAULOS.

MADELINE PAPPAS

ST. MARK'S HOSPITAL

EMPLOYEE ON 5 WEST

Nikki Chamberlain

January 4, 2006

What a generous and loving man. He will be greatly missed.

Julie Clapp

January 4, 2006

Gus made my dream first car (a new convertable) come true when I was 19 years old. He was the only car person (yes I looked EVERYWHERE) who realized that there were responsible young buyers out there. He listened, was absolutely hillarious, fun, bold and I remember my experience purchasing my car (1991 convertable cavalier)as if it were yesturday. That experience with him still makes me SMILE and I still tell everyone about it. Plus how amazing to work with the owner of the dealership! He was a sincere person. My thoughts go out to all who cared about him. Thanks for the fun memory. Julie

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